Afternoon at the Movies - The Hustler

The Hustler is a 1961 sports drama film directed by Robert Rossen. It tells the story of small-time pool hustler "Fast Eddie" Felson, who challenges legendary pool player "Minnesota Fats". The role of Fast Eddie was originally turned down by Paul Newman since he was starring in “Two for the Seesaw” with Elizabeth Taylor. Singer Bobby Darin was offered the part instead; however, when Taylor ped out of Seesaw due to overruns on “Cleopatra,” Newman was freed up to take the role. No one associated with the production officially notified Darin or his representatives that he had been replaced; they found out from a member of the public at a charity horse race.

Learn about these interesting facts and many more from the movie guy as we talk about “The Hustler” starring Paul Newman and then show the movie.